Australian superstar actor Chris Hemsworth (better known to Western audiences as the mighty god of thunder Thor from the Marvel Avengers movies) has been appointed global ambassador for Tourism Australia's new campaign by AOR Clemenger BBDO, which will focus on the country's world-class aquatic and coastal experiences. He succeeds former ambassador Paul Hogan, otherwise known as Crocodile Dundee. To be honest, we're surprised it's taken them this long to find a successor, as there hasn't been a Crocodile Dundee movie in 15 years (and there hasn't been a watchable one in almost 30 years).
Chris Hemsworth has been appointed global ambassador for Tourism Australia's new campaign, replacing Paul Hogan (Crocodile Dundee)
Tourism Australia managing director, John O'Sullivan said that whilst Australia would still be the star of its latest campaign, Hemsworth would provide an authentic Australian voice to help tell the country's story globally. He'll probably also be shirtless. O'Sullivan said: “Chris truly embodies the Australian way of life and his love of his home country, with all its natural beauty, makes him an ideal ambassador. From learning how to surf on Phillip Island, fishing with his brothers in the Northern Territory and family beach holidays, Chris has grown up in Australia in and around water and his own personal experiences bring a truly authentic and influential Australian voice to our campaign.”
Former ambassador Paul 'Crocodile Dundee' Hogan
Hemsworth himself added: “In Australia you're surrounded by the most incredible natural beauty. Being in the water or near to it is a way of life for us. It wasn't a hard decision to move back to Australia because this part of the world is such a special place. This is the place I want my kids to grow up - that's the world I want them to be part of. I'm really looking forward to launching this new campaign in New York and sharing with the rest of the world just how amazing this country really is.”
Whilst Australia will still be the star of the campaign, Hemsworth will provide an authentic Australian voice to help tell the country's story globally
Tourism Australia's chief marketing officer, Lisa Ronson, meanwhile, believes that the Hollywood star, who will launch the country's new campaign focusing on its stunning beaches and coastal experiences at the global premiere on Australia Day (January 25) eve in New York, is a a natural fit for the role. She said: “Chris is passionate about Australia, with a genuine desire to promote the Australian way of life and therefore makes a great global ambassador for telling the world why there's nothing like Australia. This is just the start of a longer-term partnership with Chris and we look forward to further developing our plans after the launch in New York.”
